# Gauteng is recording an average of 27 kidnappings a day, according to crime statistics covering January to March in the 2025/2026 financial year. The province accounts for more than half of the country’s kidnapping cases. Speaking to EWN, Criminologist Jacob Mofokeng says syndicates are organised and target victims through hijackings, dating apps, and ransom schemes. He says victims are often forced to empty bank accounts or take loans through banking apps, with the first 24 hours after an abduction critical for recovery.
Gauteng records average of 27 kidnappings a day